Africa’s first Cybersecurity and Information Technology Management Professor, Ademola Ojo Emmanuel, has released his new book ‘Leading The Digital Future’, which focuses on effective leadership in the digital age, recently in Abuja.
The 401-page, 50-chapter publication focuses on the intersection of leadership, technology, ethics, and faith as key ingredients for Nigeria becoming a leader rather than a follower in a world that is rapidly turning digital.
For Ademola, Nigeria must invest intentionally in education, innovate, and not solely adapt but also respond to the information and technological demands posed by the rise of Artificial Intelligence.
“The world has changed. Digital transformation is now the engine of national competitiveness. Digital policy is national policy. Data is infrastructure. Cybersecurity is national security, and innovation determines economic destiny.
“If we do not prepare, we will pay. If we do not lead, we will follow. If we do not innovate, we will stagnate. Nigeria must not be a consumer of the digital world but a contributor, creator, and a global competitor,” said Ademola.
Hence, the founding of the Professor Ademola Ojo Emmanuel Foundation (PAOEF), which hosted the maiden, annual PAOEF Summit, and launched the publication. PAOEF is further facilitating the construction of the University of Professional Studies at Igbajo-Ilesha, in Oriade, Osun State.
The proposed digital-first university will offer academic learning and qualifications in Cybersecurity, Digital Governance, Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), Data Science, Public Leadership, and Professional Studies in Law and Management.
“It will be a hub for professional studies and applied research. A talent engine for Nigeria’s future workforce. A model of responsible and values-driven education. It is being built to serve Nigeria, lift young people, and advance national competitiveness.”
While calling on state, private actors, and development partners to support the academic project, Ademola described the book ‘Leading The Digital Future’ as the roadmap for national digital transformation, cybersecurity leadership, AI integration in governance, public sector modernisation, ethical technology, future of work strategy, and faith-aligned leadership.
The publication does not plunge readers headfirst into digital principles; rather, it gradually takes readers through the concepts of communication, innovation, globalisation, the place of leaders in a globalised world, the digital age, factors at play in the digital age in the market space, and how to build digital-responsive businesses and economies.
The author also channels the discourse through an African perspective in chapters 37, 38, 39, and 42, arguing that the continent and the global south can be empowered to lead the digital through investment and the promotion of digital literacy, critical thinking, internet safety, and ethical technological practices. Before venturing into his forte, cybersecurity in chapters 46 to 48, whilst dedicating chapters 47, ‘Strategic Intelligence in Leadership’, and 49, ‘A Call To Action’, to leaders, policymakers, and educators across all spheres of life.
Although 50 chapters seem bulky, each chapter averages seven to ten pages, and is written in comprehensive English that is devoid of overuse of jargon without dilution of the subjects addressed. Thus, readers can tackle the publication chapter by chapter based on their area of interest.
“In an era of AI expansion, digital divides and ethical crises in technology, this book provides a much-needed framework for humane and responsible leadership. Ademola seamlessly integrates insights from cybersecurity, ethics, governance, and business, reflecting the multifaceted nature of digital leadership. The integration of ethical and spiritual dimensions into digital discourse is rare and valuable. And by centering African voices and experiences, the book enriches global conversations on digital futures and innovation. I recommend it for leaders, policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the ethical and practical dimensions of digital transformation,” said the book reviewer, Jerry Adesewo.
Mother of the occasion, Yinka Tunji-Ojo, stressed the fact that technology alone cannot shape the future. Rather, the future will be shaped by technology, government, and faith. She says technology without values, which is instilled by faith, will erode trust and disconnect man’s shared humanity.
“Future-ready leadership must ensure that innovation is guided by ethics, compassion, and purpose. A transparent, inclusive, accountable, and responsive governance builds trust between leaders and the people.
“Technology can strengthen governance, but only leaders of integrity can give it meaning. When faith, which teaches us justice, love, service, discipline, and hope, informs leadership, it humanizes policy, inspires compassion, and fosters unity across differences. Let us work together to build a society where technology serves humanity. Governance serves justice, and faith inspires renewal”.
